Comparing Band-Loop Space Maintainers Made by 3D Printing and Traditional Methods and Their Effects on Gum Health in Children Ages 5 to 8

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are conducting a randomized clinical trial to compare the clinical success and effects on periodontal tissues of band and loop space maintainers made with a three-dimensional printer versus those made by conventional methods. The study focuses on systemically healthy children who require bilateral lower deciduous first molar extraction and space maintainer application. The goal is to assess how these two types of space maintainers perform and affect gum health over time. The trial uses a split-mouth design where each child receives a band and loop space maintainer made by conventional technique on one side of the lower jaw and one made by a three-dimensional printer on the other side. Digital impressions will be taken with an intraoral scanner, and the 3D-printed space maintainer will be created using micro laser sinterisation from nickel-chromium metal powders. The conventional space maintainer will be made with traditional alginate impressions and stainless steel bands soldered in a laboratory. Participants will be followed for 18 months with check-ups every six months to monitor the survival and clinical success of each appliance, including criteria like cement dissolution, breakage, gum inflammation, and plaque buildup. Periodontal health will be evaluated through pocket depth, plaque index, gingival index, and tests of gingival groove fluid for inflammatory markers. Patient satisfaction with the impression methods will also be compared. Assessments will be repeated at baseline and during follow-up visits to understand the long-term effects of the space maintainers.

Evaluation of Band-Loop Space Maintainers Produced With Three-Dimensional Printer and Conventional Technique